Frequently Asked Questions

Get to know the set and the ritual. Read Care & Safety before use.

Is it a medical device?

No. Ye Olde Bells is a warm-steam ritual accessory. It is not a medical device and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you have a health concern, talk to a qualified healthcare professional.

What is a vocal steamer?

A vocal steamer is a personal steam inhaler that singers, choir members, voice actors and speakers use for a warm-steam ritual before rehearsals and performances. Ours is a ceramic vocal steamer with a Victorian design and no electricity at all: just add hot water, with an optional tealight warmer.

Do I need to use a candle?

No. The steamer works with hot (not boiling) water alone: fill it, fit the stopper and mouthpiece, and breathe the warm steam. The tealight is optional and simply keeps the water warm for longer. If you do use one, follow the candle safety guidance below.

Is it the same as a Dr Nelson’s inhaler?

No. Our ceramic steam inhaler is inspired by the classic Victorian Dr Nelson’s design, with a vented warmer base that takes an optional tealight to keep the water warm for longer. Ye Olde Bells is an independent brand, not affiliated with or endorsed by the makers of Dr Nelson’s inhalers. Read more in our history of the Victorian steam inhaler.

Is this a throat steamer or a personal steam inhaler?

People search for warm-steam accessories under lots of names: vocal steamer, personal steam inhaler, throat steamer and steamer for singers. Ye Olde Bells is a non-electric ceramic vocal steamer for a warm-steam ritual. It is a lifestyle accessory, not a medical device, and we make no health claims for it.

What water should I use?

Use plain warm water only. Never pour in boiling water straight off the boil. Let freshly boiled water cool for a few minutes; fill only once warm, to the indicated line below the side spout.

Can I add essential oils or anything else?

No. Do not add essential oils, fragrances, medications, or any other additives. Use plain warm water only.

Is it a non-electric steam inhaler?

Yes. Simply fill it with hot (not boiling) water and breathe the warm steam. A standard tealight in the ceramic warmer base is optional and only keeps the water warm for longer. The set needs no electricity, cords, or batteries. Stay with the candle for the entire session.

How long does a tealight last?

A typical standard tealight burns for about four hours, though actual burn time varies. Your ritual should last 5–10 minutes; extinguish the candle afterward. Never leave it burning unattended.

How hot does it get?

Water, steam, ceramic, and glass can become hot enough to scald or burn. No fixed operating temperature is specified. Use warm, not boiling, water; keep your face a comfortable distance away, avoid hot glass, and stop if uncomfortable. Use the handle and let every part cool fully before handling or cleaning.

How do I clean it?

Once the candle is out and everything has cooled fully, empty the vessel and gently separate the parts. Hand wash with warm soapy water, rinse, and air dry. Do not use a dishwasher, microwave, stove, or oven.

What comes in the set?

The ceramic steam vessel, ceramic candle-warmer base, clear glass mouthpiece tube, rubber stopper, tealight candles, and tweezers for handling the tealight are included. The assembled set is approximately 6 inches tall and 4.5 inches wide.

Where do US orders ship from, and how long do they take?

US orders ship from Traverse City, Michigan, for a flat $9.99 shipping rate. Delivery usually takes about 5–6 business days. Delivery estimates are not guaranteed; see our Shipping & Returns page for details.

What is your return policy?

Unused items in their original packaging can be returned within 30 days of delivery. If your order arrives damaged, email photos to support@oldebells.com within 7 days of delivery. For return instructions, contact support@oldebells.com.

Is it suitable as a gift?

It is a thoughtful gift for an adult singer, choir member, vocal coach, voice actor, speaker, or heritage-design enthusiast who enjoys a considered routine. The complete set costs $69.99. If they plan to use the optional tealight, make sure they have a suitable place where candle use is permitted.

Can I use it backstage or while traveling?

Yes, with hot water alone it needs only a stable, heat-resistant surface. Use the optional tealight only where open flames are permitted. Never use candles in hotel rooms where prohibited. Keep clear of scripts, costumes, curtains, children, and pets. Never carry the set while lit or filled with hot water; let all parts cool, empty, and dry before packing.

Where are you based?

Ye Olde Bells is an English company, registered in England. We stock and ship in the USA from Traverse City, Michigan, so prices are in USD and there are no import fees on US orders.

Ye Olde Bells is a trading name of BMTICK UK/EU/USA LTD, a company registered in England and Wales (company number 10766844). Registered office: 2 Fleetwith Close, West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 6RR, England. Director: Jonathan Bell. Email: support@oldebells.com.

Read Shipping & Returns, or contact us with another question.